Overview
These notes summarize core Grade 12 Philosophy concepts, focusing on philosophical definitions, major branches, and basic philosophical questions relevant for senior high school students.
What is Philosophy?
- Philosophy is the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language.
- It explores the meaning and purpose of human life and the universe.
Branches of Philosophy
- Epistemology studies the nature and limits of knowledge.
- Metaphysics examines reality, existence, and the nature of being.
- Ethics explores moral values, what is right or wrong, and human conduct.
- Logic deals with principles of correct reasoning and argumentation.
- Aesthetics considers the nature of beauty, art, and taste.
- Political Philosophy examines government, justice, liberty, and rights.
Key Philosophical Questions
- What is real and what can be known (Metaphysics & Epistemology)?
- What is the right thing to do (Ethics)?
- What makes something beautiful (Aesthetics)?
- How should society be organized (Political Philosophy)?
Why Study Philosophy?
- Philosophy develops critical thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving skills.
- It teaches how to analyze arguments and clarify ideas.
- Philosophy encourages open-mindedness and the ability to see multiple perspectives.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Philosophy — the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence.
- Epistemology — branch focusing on knowledge and belief.
- Metaphysics — branch studying existence and reality.
- Ethics — branch analyzing moral values and conduct.
- Logic — branch concerning valid reasoning.
- Aesthetics — branch examining beauty and art.
- Political Philosophy — branch dealing with governance and laws.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review specific philosophers and examples for each branch.
- Prepare to discuss philosophical questions on knowledge, ethics, and society.
- Read introductory textbook chapters on the major branches of philosophy.